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37 Alternatives to Yelling at Your Kids

Whether it's a carelessly broken vase in the living room or a blatant refusal to acknowledge parental authority, children have the capacity to make our blood boil. And when we're at our breaking point — as is often the case when raising kids — screaming and yelling feels good.

But as parents, we have to remember that we're the adults, and that yelling at our children does little to help them grow into the people we want them to be. Next time you're tempted to scream, think of the big picture, and try one of these 37 alternatives to yelling instead.

1. Breathe. Deep, slow breathing helps to diffuse tension in stressful situations. Take several deep breaths to help you feel calmer, and hopefully the urge to scream will subside.

2. Count to 10. Sing the ABCs. Recite the periodic table. Whatever it takes to give you a few minutes to cool off before responding.

3. Talk it out. Call a good friend and discuss the situation. Talk about what's making you angry.

4. Take a time-out.Time-out is usually thought of as a punishment for a child, but if you're about to explode, you're the one who needs to remove yourself from the situation and regain your composure.

5. Change the scenery. If you're at home, load everyone up in the car and head somewhere else. If you're out in public, go home.

6. Write it down. Instead of directing harsh words towards your kids, write down what you wish you could say. Express your feelings of frustration and anger on paper, then rip it up and throw it away.

7. Ask a question. The response your child gives may surprise you.

8. Walk away.

9. Remember your long-term goals. Think about the values you hope to instill in your children. Will yelling help teach them?

10. Model the conflict resolution you want your children to learn. What you do is always more important than what you say.

11. Go for a walk.

12. Call for reinforcements. Ask your partner or spouse to come home early, or call a babysitter.

I have yet to meet a parent who never yells, and some experts suggest that a fair amount of yelling at home actually prepares children for the moments of emotional conflict they will inevitably encounter throughout their lives. Still, all it takes is a single tear rolling down the cheek of one of my kids to make me instantly regret a moment when I've lost my cool.